Oral History: Empowering Youth and Preserving Heritage – A Message from the DBE

South Africa’s Department of Basic Education (DBE) is championing oral history as a vital tool for young people. Mr Likho Bottoman, Director at the DBE’s Social Cohesion Directorate, recently highlighted the importance of oral history. It’s not just about remembering the past, but also providing a platform for young South Africans to showcase their talents and actively preserve their heritage. It’s great to see initiatives that empower young people to connect with their roots and share their stories!

Oral history offers a unique opportunity for intergenerational connection. By interviewing elders and community members, students gain first-hand accounts of significant events and traditions. This fosters a deeper understanding of their cultural identity and strengthens the bonds within their communities. The DBE’s focus on oral history demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that these valuable stories are not lost but instead passed down to future generations.

This initiative also aligns with a broader educational trend: moving beyond textbook learning to engage with real-world narratives. Oral history projects encourage critical thinking, research skills, and communication abilities. Students learn to listen attentively, ask insightful questions, and present their findings in a compelling way. The DBE’s support is invaluable in creating spaces for these crucial learning experiences.

You can see the original tweet from the DBE about this exciting initiative here: https://x.com/DBE_SA/status/1959191333899215150. And for more school news, be sure to check out SchoolClick’s news section.